When are HCAHPS surveys collected after discharge?

HCAHPS (Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems) surveys are designed to measure patients' perspectives on hospital care. These surveys are typically collected after patients have had time to transition from the hospital environment and reflect thoughtfully on their experiences.

The correct timeframe for collecting HCAHPS surveys is within 42 days after discharge. This period allows patients sufficient time to assess their hospital stay, providing more reliable and meaningful feedback about their care. It is essential for hospitals to use this feedback to enhance the quality of care and patient experience.

The other timeframes listed—7 days, 30 days, and 60 days—do not align with the established guidelines for HCAHPS survey administration. Collecting feedback too soon after discharge may not capture the full scope of the patient's experience, while waiting too long could lead to a decline in the relevance of the feedback, as patients may forget certain details about their care. Hence, 42 days is the optimal window for obtaining actionable patient experiences through the survey.